Wiltshire MP warns new planning rules threaten rural village development near train stations
"Default yes" rule in National Planning Policy Framework sparks concerns
New planning regulations allowing easier development near railway stations have come under scrutiny, with East Wiltshire MP Danny Kruger voicing concerns over their potential impact on rural villages.
The revised National Planning Policy Framework introduces a "default yes" rule for housing within reasonable walking distance of well-connected stations, prompting fears of "speculative development" around locations like Great Bedwyn and Pewsey.
Kruger highlighted the risk of locally agreed development limits being undermined, forcing rural communities to tolerate denser expansions.
The framework garnered criticism from the Campaign to Protect Rural England, whose chief executive Roger Mortlock stressed that while development linked to public transport can be beneficial, it shouldn't automatically extend to every station.
Despite the controversy, the government advocates that the new policy will reduce commuting distances and enhance access to jobs, education, and services.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander supports the initiative, emphasising its potential to create sustainable homes.
Within Pewsey, much of the area around the station has already been developed following the construction of homes at Crown Close in 2017.
Meanwhile, Great Bedwyn's capacity for housing remains limited due to its settlement boundary constraints, notably impacting The Knapp estate, a retirement housing community.
As Wiltshire contemplates these changes, plans for development potentially target sites like Chippenham's Station Hub and Salisbury's Engine Sheds, though progress has been mixed.
In Tisbury, an initial proposal for housing was refused, while Trowbridge's former Innox Mills site secured approval but has yet to commence work.
These developments exemplify the ongoing dialogue around the framework's implications for future land use across Wiltshire.